The Changing Limitations of Science: In 1835, French philosopher Auguste Comte stated that
science would never allow us to learn the composition of stars. Athough spectra lines had been
seen in the sun's spectrum by that time, not unti the mid-1800s did scientists recognize that
spectral lines give clear information about chemical composition (primarily through the work of
Foucault and Kirchhoff). Why might our present knowledge have seemed unattainable in 1835?
Discuss how new discoveries can change the apparent limitations of science. Today, other
questions seem beyond the reach of science. such as the question of how life began on earth. Do
you think such questions will ever be answerable through science? Defend your opinion..
The Changing Limitations of Science In 1835, French philosopher Augu.pdf
1. The Changing Limitations of Science: In 1835, French philosopher Auguste Comte stated that
science would never allow us to learn the composition of stars. Athough spectra lines had been
seen in the sun's spectrum by that time, not unti the mid-1800s did scientists recognize that
spectral lines give clear information about chemical composition (primarily through the work of
Foucault and Kirchhoff). Why might our present knowledge have seemed unattainable in 1835?
Discuss how new discoveries can change the apparent limitations of science. Today, other
questions seem beyond the reach of science. such as the question of how life began on earth. Do
you think such questions will ever be answerable through science? Defend your opinion.
